Chinese Fighter Jets Respond to Foreign Aircraft Provocations

Chinese state media reported on two instances of Chinese fighter jets responding to foreign incursions. These incidents involved the use of J-16 and J-15 aircraft to address foreign aircraft activity near Chinese territory.

In one case, two J-16 fighter jets were deployed to intercept a foreign aircraft that had violated China's territorial sea boundary. The incident, which occurred at an undisclosed date and location, was documented in footage released by China Central Television (CCTV).

According to reports, the foreign aircraft was flying at a low altitude and approaching the territorial sea line. The Chinese pilot, Zhang Zhanfang, maneuvered his aircraft to intercept the foreign plane, forcing it away from the boundary. Despite initial attempts to circle and return, the foreign aircraft was ultimately driven away after warnings were issued.

The J-16, a heavy fighter with significant fuel capacity and the ability to carry a variety of missiles, is well-suited for such missions. Military expert Cao Weidong explained that Chinese forces typically begin with radio warnings on international frequencies. If these are ignored, they may then use their aircraft to intercept and drive away the offending aircraft. In more serious cases, where warnings are ineffective, further action is permissible.

In a separate incident from May 2022, J-15 fighter jets were scrambled in response to provocations near the Liaoning aircraft carrier. During a far-sea mission, the carrier group was targeted by aircraft from two foreign carrier groups.

The J-15s, armed with missiles, engaged the foreign aircraft in high-altitude dogfights, successfully driving them away. The engagement involved a descent from 8000 meters to 2000 meters.